The Duke of Berry, Jean de France, commissioned the most talented scribes, artists, and illuminators to produce Les Grandes Heures de Jean de France duc de Berry, a masterpiece of French design and craftsmanship. Completed in 1409 A.D., this richly illustrated devotional manuscript is organized by the canonical hours of the day, times to honor the Virgin Mary with prayers and liturgical readings. Elaborate, highly complex ornamental borders are decorated with armorial devices of bears and swans, as well as the family coat of arms. Animal depictions are juxtaposed with human figures that range from apostles and prophets to grotesques and fools. The text is executed in gothic book lettering.